Business and jobs

Protecting the environment, protecting jobs

The Lower Duwamish industrial area is a regional economic engine with more than 100,000 jobs and an annual economic output of $13.5 billion. Eight percent of King County’s jobs are located in the Lower Duwamish, along with one-quarter of all jobs associated with manufacturing, transportation and warehousing. The jobs generally pay above-average wages without requiring advanced education, making economic opportunity widely accessible.

Jobs in the Lower Duwamish depend on the area’s unique transportation and infrastructure framework that allows ready access to a major port, rail lines and airports. King County’s economic health depends on its ability to keep goods, services and people moving through this vital maritime port and transportation hub.

When it comes to quality of life, environmental health and the economy are intertwined. Businesses are required to comply with strict environmental laws to keep our air and water clean so we can protect the natural resources our region is known for. Many businesses in the Duwamish corridor including manufacturing, shipping, and industrial plants are finding ways to reduce pollution, complete low impact development projects and increase wildlife habitat.

A healthy environment supports a quality of life that attracts people, business and investment to our region.

When it comes to cleaning up and protecting the Duwamish, King County’s goal is to make the Lower Duwamish the cleanest working river in the world. A successful cleanup will make the Lower Duwamish and area of choice for businesses. It can spur job creation in pollution cleanup, habitat restoration and other related “green collar” industries. King County and its partners encourage these kinds of local opportunities to strengthen our economy.

Business community

The business community in the Duwamish River basin is an important and valued partner. The cleanup provides an opportunity to improve safety for workers, attract new businesses, and support economic growth